Pop!

Haven't updated in a while, as I've been dealing with an unfortunate grappling incident. Last Tuesday I was rolling with a guy near the end of class, and got into an awkward position. My arm was trapped across my chest, and at the same time my balance was reversed. His weight, plus my own ended up being thrown straight down towards the mat. I managed to land directly on my right shoulder - resulting in a resounding POP!

A searing amount of pain shot through my shoulder, and after moaning and groaning for a bit I was brought off the mat and given some ice. Apparently my AC ligament was probably damaged...a common grappling injury I'd never heard about before. After some help changing into half my street clothes it was off to Lenox Hill's ER in a cab.

After some X-Rays, I was diagnosed with a 3rd degree AC shoulder separation:



Basically the ligament that holds the shoulder joint to the clavicle is badly damaged, causing the shoulder joint to drop. Basically, the shoulder itself works pretty well, but certain angles and movement cause that ligament to scream in pain - so I have to keep pressure off of the shoulder...i.e.: in a sling.

I'll know more on Wednesday what the extent of the damage is - but it will hopefully heal on its own in a few weeks, then some physical therapy will hopefully get me back to normal.

I'll update with good news soon!

- Chris